Interview: Mark Farner of Grand Funk Railroad - In Depth Band History, New Album & Legendary Stories

Welcome to LEGENDS: Podcast by All Day Vinyl, hosted by Scott Dudelson.

In this episode, we sit down with a true icon of American rock—Mark Farner, the unmistakable voice, guitarist, and songwriting powerhouse behind Grand Funk Railroad.

Mark takes us deep into the early days of Grand Funk, sharing vivid stories of the band’s meteoric rise and the making of their first groundbreaking albums. He also reflects on unforgettable collaborations with music legends like Ringo Starr, Frank Zappa, and other heroes of rock history.

Farner opens up about the spirit and soul behind the music—the raw energy of Grand Funk’s explosive live shows, and how both the industry and his personal journey have evolved over the years.

We also explore Mark’s latest solo release, Closer To My Home, produced by Mark Slaughter (of the band Slaughter). He discusses the spiritual and emotional core of the record, a project rooted in love, forgiveness, and faith—and how his creative bond with Slaughter helped bring it to life.

More than a conversation about music, this episode is a reflection on resilience, unity, and the power of song to uplift and inspire. Whether you’re a lifelong Grand Funk Railroad fan or just discovering Farner’s solo work, this is a rare and revealing conversation with one of rock and roll’s most soulful voices.

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